Chicago Neighborhood Guide: Lakeview – Discover the Best of the North Side

Are you planning to explore Chicago’s neighborhoods? Start with Lakeview, the city’s largest and most diverse neighborhood located on the North Side. With its picturesque tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and bustling business district, Lakeview has something for everyone. This comprehensive Chicago Neighborhood Guide: Lakeview will take you on a journey through the neighborhood’s history, landmarks, attractions, dining, shopping, nightlife, and more.  

Lakeview Neighborhood Guide

Chicago is a city of neighborhoods, each with its unique personality, history, and culture. Lakeview is one such neighborhood that has transformed from a sleepy suburb to a bustling urban community over the years. The neighborhood has a rich history, vibrant culture, and a diverse population, making it one of the most desirable neighborhoods in the city. This guide will help you navigate the streets of Lakeview, providing insights into the best places to visit, dine, shop, and stay.  

Chicago Neighborhood Guide: Lakeview 

Lakeview is a dynamic neighborhood situated on the North Side of Chicago, spanning over four miles along the shore of Lake Michigan. The area is known for its stunning lakefront parks, lively business district, historic architecture, and diverse population. The neighborhood is home to more than 100,000 residents and offers a range of activities for visitors and locals alike. 

History of Lakeview 

Lakeview’s history dates back to the early 19th century when it was a small rural community surrounded by farms and fields. The neighborhood saw rapid growth in the 1850s when the railroad arrived in the area, connecting Lakeview to downtown Chicago. The 1871 Chicago Fire caused a massive influx of residents to the neighborhood, leading to the development of many iconic landmarks such as Wrigley Field, the Music Box Theatre, and the Athenaeum Theatre. 

Attractions in Lakeview 

Lakeview is home to several iconic attractions that are worth exploring. Start with Wrigley Field, the home of the Chicago Cubs, and catch a game or take a tour of the stadium. If you’re looking for a dose of culture, head to the Music Box Theatre, one of the oldest movie theatres in the city, or the Athenaeum Theatre, a historic performing arts venue. For nature enthusiasts, there are plenty of parks to explore, including Lincoln Park, Lakefront Trail, and Belmont Harbor. 

Dining in Lakeview 

Lakeview has a thriving dining scene with an array of options for every taste and budget. From upscale eateries to casual cafes, the neighborhood has it all. Indulge in some classic Chicago deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s, try the famous Italian beef sandwich at Al’s Beef, or savor some delicious sushi at Juno. 

Shopping in Lakeview 

Lakeview is a shopper’s paradise, with an abundance of boutiques, antique shops, and specialty stores. The Southport Corridor is a popular shopping destination, offering a mix of local and national brands, while the Belmont Avenue district is known for its vintage and second-hand stores. If you’re looking for unique gifts, head to the local artisan market at the Nettelhorst School. 

Nightlife in Lakeview 

Lakeview is a popular destination for nightlife in Chicago, offering a diverse range of options from dive bars to upscale lounges. Music lovers can enjoy local and national acts at popular live music venues like the legendary Metro near Wrigley Field. For a more relaxed evening, Lakeview boasts several craft breweries and cocktail bars. Whatever your preference, you’ll find it in Lakeview’s vibrant and exciting bar scene.  

 Accommodation in Lakeview 

Whether you’re visiting Lakeview for a weekend getaway or planning an extended stay, there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from. The neighborhood offers a range of hotels, bed and breakfasts, and short-term rentals. The Hotel Zachary, located steps away from Wrigley Field, is a popular choice for baseball fans, while the Old Chicago Inn is a charming bed and breakfast that offers a glimpse into the neighborhood’s history. 

Transportation in Lakeview 

Getting around Lakeview is easy thanks to the neighborhood’s excellent public transportation options. The CTA Red and Brown lines serve the area, providing easy access to downtown Chicago and other parts of the city. The neighborhood also has a well-connected bus network, including the #77 Belmont bus and the #22 Clark bus. 

Events in Lakeview 

Lakeview is a hub of cultural events and festivals throughout the year. One of the biggest events in the neighborhood is the Chicago Pride Parade, held in June, which attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world. The Lakeview East Festival of the Arts, held in September, is a celebration of local artists and musicians, while the Lakeview Taco Fest, held in October, is a food lover’s dream come true. 

FAQs 

Q. What is Lakeview known for? 

 Lakeview is known for its lakefront parks, lively business district, historic architecture, and diverse population. 

Q. What are the best attractions in Lakeview?  

The best attractions in Lakeview include Wrigley Field, the Music Box Theatre, the Athenaeum Theatre, Lincoln Park, Lakefront Trail, and Belmont Harbor. 

Q. Where can I find the best food in Lakeview?  

Some of the best places to eat in Lakeview include Lou Malnati’s for a deep-dish pizza, Al’s Beef for Italian beef sandwiches, and Juno for sushi. 

Q. What is the best way to get around Lakeview?  

The best way to get around Lakeview is by public transportation. The neighborhood has excellent connectivity to the CTA Red and Brown lines and a well-connected bus network. 

Q. What are some popular events in Lakeview?  

Some popular events in Lakeview include the Chicago Pride Parade, the Lakeview East Festival of the Arts, and the Lakeview Taco Fest. 

Q. Is Lakeview a safe neighborhood?  

Lakeview is generally considered a safe neighborhood, with low crime rates and an active community policing program. 

Conclusion 

Lakeview is a must-visit neighborhood in Chicago, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse population. From iconic landmarks to bustling business districts, the neighborhood offers plenty of activities for visitors and locals alike. This comprehensive Chicago Neighborhood Guide: Lakeview will help you navigate the streets of Lakeview and explore the best places to visit, dine, shop, and stay. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the best of the North Side!  

Moving to Lakeview?: Trust Hollander Movers for a Hassle-Free Move 

Moving to a new neighborhood can be overwhelming, but with Hollander Movers in Lakeview, you can have a seamless and stress-free move. 

Hollander is a reputable moving company with over 130 years of experience in the industry. We offer a comprehensive range of services including packing, moving, and storage, all with a focus on providing exceptional customer service. Get in touch with us today to schedule your move and experience our exceptional Chicago moving services firsthand. 

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